In 1960, he established the Plaza Bowling Lanes in Celina. Being the proud founder of the Volunteer Fire Department in North Marion, Fla., he served as their chief for many years. He was a real estate agent and broker, and also worked as a farmer and cattle rancher. Right after graduating from Celina High School, he started his own milk route, delivering Sealtest Dairy products.

He served with the U.S. Army during the Korean Conflict. He attended St. John Lutheran Church, Celina. He had a passion for entertaining people. He participated in tractor pulls all around the eastern United States with his jet engine tractor, the "IRA."